SIX6-related microphthalmia · SIX6 eye malformation · Anophthalmia/Microphthalmia SIX6-related · Ocular dysgenesis SIX6 · SIX6-assoziierte Augenfehlbildung · Eye malformation, SIX6-related
This is a congenital eye malformation caused by a genetic mutation in the SIX6 gene, which is crucial for normal eye development. The defect disrupts how the eye structures form in the womb, often resulting in microphthalmia, which means the eyeballs are abnormally small, or eyes that are incompletely developed. It is inherited in an autosomal-dominant manner, meaning a dog only needs to inherit one copy of the mutated gene to be affected.
Owners will typically notice symptoms in puppies shortly after their eyes open, around two to three weeks of age. Affected puppies may have visibly tiny eyes, appear partially or completely blind, squint, or show signs of eye cloudiness and inflammation.
While the underlying malformation cannot be cured, symptoms can be managed with lifelong anti-inflammatory eye drops, or in severe, painful cases, a one-time surgical removal of the affected eye. Management and surgical options typically cost between 300 and 2500 EUR depending on the severity and required interventions.
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
More conditions affecting the Eyes.